The Association of United and Solidary Health Professionals of Mozambique (APSUSM) announced on Monday (19) the extension of the strike that began on April 17, extending the stoppage for another 30 days.

In a statement released today, the union said that the decision was the result of a lack of progress in the dialogue with the government, particularly with regard to the payment of overtime, shift allowances and other pending demands.

"The strike will be carried out again in phases, if the government intends to continue with the arm wrestling with the negotiating team," the document states.

According to the professionals, they have been calling for structural improvements in the sector for more than three years, including the regular supply of medicines to hospitals - which in many cases are bought by the patients themselves - the purchase of hospital beds, the availability of food in inpatient services and the proper equipping of ambulances and staff with non-disposable personal protective equipment.

"In view of the lack of response, we are announcing the maintenance of the single shift system, with daily shifts from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., without the provision of services on weekends and public holidays," they add.

(Photo DR)